The Institution of Mechanical Engineers is calling for entries for two new awards recognising achievements in the field of industrial heritage conservation.
The Institution is sponsoring two categories for the Icon Conservation Awards 2015 each worth £2,500.
Ian Clark, spokesman for the Institution of Mechanical Engineers’ Engineering Heritage Committee, said:
“These awards present a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the fantastic achievements of projects around the UK which are conserving our industrial heritage for future generations to enjoy.
“These artefacts define our past and provide a valuable resource for our understanding of human endeavour and our appreciation of the role of mechanical engineering in society.
“As the birthplace of the industrial revolution, the UK has become a world leader in preserving and promoting engineering heritage which is showcased by artefacts as rich and diverse as Concorde, the Newcomen Engine, the steam locomotive Mallard, Holland 1 submarine and the Jaguar E Type.
“The conservation of industrial heritage underpins our engineering history but these artefacts can also help young people gain a wider understanding and appreciation of mechanical engineering and science.
“These awards are open to all and we invite organisations and individuals to apply.”
The Icon Conservation Awards 2015 Programme consists of six major national awards. The Institution of Mechanical Engineers Award for the Conservation of an Industrial Heritage Artefact, worth £2,500, is to recognise excellence in engineering conservation to a professional or organisation.
While the Institution of Mechanical Engineers Award for Volunteering in the Conservation of an Industrial Heritage Artefact, also worth £2,500, is to recognise the engineering conservation of either an artefact or collection which includes a significant contribution by volunteers.
Judging for these two awards will be managed by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers’ Heritage Committee and the closing date for entries is May 15, 2015.
The other categories for the Icon Conservation Awards are: the Pilgrim Trust Award for Conservation, which celebrates excellence in the conservation of cultural heritage; the Beko Award for Conservation in the Community; the Pilgrim Trust Student Conservator of the Year Award; and the Anna Plowden Trust Award for Research and Innovation in Conservation.
The award winners will be announced at a special ceremony at the Institution of Mechanical Engineers in Westminster on October 22, 2015.
To find out more about the Icon Awards or to apply: http://conservationawards.org.uk/awards/
